IN THIS ISSUE: Read Across America Week; The Oregon Child Care Start-Up and Expansion Grant; Coming Soon – State of Child Care Business Survey; Reminders
Get ready to showcase your classroom spirit for Read Across America week!
Will you be sharing some awesome classroom photos on Facebook or Instagram? Tag the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care, and we will re-share your post on our page/in our stories on social media!
Applications are open February 19, 2024 through March 22, 2024. Funding is limited and this grant opportunity will close on May 31, 2024 or when funding runs out.
First Children’s Finance has partnered with the Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care to better understand the current state of Oregon child care businesses. We will be conducting a State of Child Care Business Survey and focus groups in mid-April to identify trends in the current financial operation of child care businesses, gain insight into operational and financial management issues, and gather entrepreneurs’ voices. The information shared will be included in a public-facing report and responses will not be identifiable. Stay tuned for additional information and the link to participate!
Reminder: Available Now: New online training opportunities from Inclusive Partners
Child care providers and members of the community can now access two free training(s) from Inclusive Partners! Read the descriptions below to learn more about each opportunity.
Inclusion 101
At times, the word inclusion can feel vague and open to interpretation. Individuals may feel unsure of what inclusion is, what it looks like, and how they can support inclusive practices in their setting. This Set 1 training will explore the three defining features of inclusion: access, participation, and support, and can help us all gain an understanding of what inclusion in early learning spaces really means. Participants will learn about fostering a sense of belonging for all children and will be challenged to look closely at their own values and beliefs so that we can create early learning spaces where all children feel welcomed.
The ADA and You
Do you think the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) seems overwhelming? It can be if you look at the legislation from a “have to” point of view. Come learn how we can move from the “have to’s” to the “get to’s” of inclusive policies and practices. This course is not presented by legal counsel.
Reminder: Join our Nature Based Child Care Workgroup
The goal of the workgroup is to gather valuable feedback on about outdoor learning environments and discuss how rules can be structured to support the health and safety of children in these programs.
The application period opens February 12, 2024 and closes on March 8, 2024. Meetings will begin in April. Three to four meetings will be held, with one meeting scheduled per week. The meetings will be held virtually. Meeting days and times will be finalized with the selected participants.
The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is seeking your input on upcoming revisions to the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) that impact family child care homes. This includes rules for Registered Family and Certified Family providers. CCLD is interested in knowing which rules you would like to see changed and why. Please provide us with your thoughts. CCLD values your input!
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.
IN THIS ISSUE: Celebrating Black History Month; Feedback Survey; NEW trainings from Inclusive Partners; Nature Based Child Care Workgroup; Reminders
Every month is Black History Month, but February is the spotlight.
Let’s shine it bright!
Available Now: New online training opportunities from Inclusive Partners
Child care providers and members of the community can now access two free training(s) from Inclusive Partners! Read the descriptions below to learn more about each opportunity.
Inclusion 101
At times, the word inclusion can feel vague and open to interpretation. Individuals may feel unsure of what inclusion is, what it looks like, and how they can support inclusive practices in their setting. This Set 1 training will explore the three defining features of inclusion: access, participation, and support, and can help us all gain an understanding of what inclusion in early learning spaces really means. Participants will learn about fostering a sense of belonging for all children and will be challenged to look closely at their own values and beliefs so that we can create early learning spaces where all children feel welcomed.
The ADA and You
Do you think the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) seems overwhelming? It can be if you look at the legislation from a “have to” point of view. Come learn how we can move from the “have to’s” to the “get to’s” of inclusive policies and practices. This course is not presented by legal counsel.
The goal of the workgroup is to gather valuable feedback on about outdoor learning environments and discuss how rules can be structured to support the health and safety of children in these programs.
The application period opens February 12, 2024 and closes on March 8, 2024. Meetings will begin in April. Three to four meetings will be held, with one meeting scheduled per week. The meetings will be held virtually. Meeting days and times will be finalized with the selected participants.
The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is seeking your input on upcoming revisions to the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) that impact family child care homes. This includes rules for Registered Family and Certified Family providers. CCLD is interested in knowing which rules you would like to see changed and why. Please provide us with your thoughts. CCLD values your input!
Reminder: CALL FOR PARTICIPATION Child Care Resource and Referral Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
Child Care Resource and Referrals (CCR&Rs) are regional programs funded by the Department of Early Learning and Care to recruit and support early learning and care programs, both home- and center-based. CCR&Rs help expand high-quality early learning and care across Oregon by empowering programs with resources and technical assistance.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is seeking diverse voices to represent child care resource and referral agencies, early learning hubs, and early learning system community partners.
Apply today to give input on the match requirement for CCR&Rs in the state!
We are seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Committee members may include:
Child Care Resource & Referral representatives
Representatives from advocacy organizations
Representatives from culturally specific, community-based organizations
Early Learning Hub representatives
ECE program representatives
Tribal Nations representatives
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities. Applications are due February 16, 2024.
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.
IN THIS ISSUE: Feedback Survey; Tax Benefits; Oregon Kids Credit; Child Care Resource and Referral RAC; Baby Promise Program Rulemaking Committee (RAC); ERDC Email Updates
Feedback Survey
The Child Care Licensing Division (CCLD) is seeking your input on upcoming revisions to the Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) that impact family child care homes. This includes rules for Registered Family and Certified Family providers. CCLD is interested in knowing which rules you would like to see changed and why. Please provide us with your thoughts. CCLD values your input!
CALL FOR PARTICIPATION Child Care Resource and Referral Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
Child Care Resource and Referrals (CCR&Rs) are regional programs funded by the Department of Early Learning and Care to recruit and support early learning and care programs, both home- and center-based. CCR&Rs help expand high-quality early learning and care across Oregon by empowering programs with resources and technical assistance.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is seeking diverse voices to represent child care resource and referral agencies, early learning hubs, and early learning system community partners.
Apply today to give input on the match requirement for CCR&Rs in the state!
We are seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Committee members may include:
Child Care Resource & Referral representatives
Representatives from advocacy organizations
Representatives from culturally specific, community-based organizations
Early Learning Hub representatives
ECE program representatives
Tribal Nations representatives
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities. Applications are due February 16, 2024.
Reminder: CALL FOR PARTICIPATION Baby Promise Program Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
The Department of Early Learning and Care is seeking applicants for the Baby Promise Program Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
Baby Promise offers free, high-quality early care and education for infants and toddlers from low-income families in Oregon. Serving children ages six weeks to three years, Baby Promise is a publicly funded program that uses CCDF funds to subsidize slots in eligible early learning and care programs in coastal Douglas, Coos, Curry, Crook, Deschutes. Jefferson, and Multnomah counties.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is seeking diverse voices to represent families, Baby Promise early learning programs, child care resource and referral agencies, early learning hubs, and early learning system community partners.
Apply today to give input on the Baby Promise Program!
We are seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Committee members may include:
Families
Early Learning and Care Programs and providers with contracted Baby Promise slots
Child Care Resource & Referral representatives
Representatives from advocacy organizations
Union Representatives
Representatives from programs who provide care for young children
Representatives from culturally specific, community-based organizations
Early Learning Hub representatives
Higher Education Early Childhood Education Degree Program representatives
Tribal Nations representatives
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities. Applications are due February 9, 2024.
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.
IN THIS ISSUE: Early Childhood Professionals with International Degrees; Baby Promise Rulemaking Committee; Oregon Kids Credit; Child Care Stabilization grant; General Reminders
Early Childhood Professionals with International Degrees
HB 2504 required DELC to reduce barriers for early childhood professionals with international degrees. We have created guidance documents that will help program administrators determine qualifications using college credits and/or experience that was achieved internationally.
To find more information and guidance on determining staff qualifications using an international degree or transcripts please visit:
CALL FOR PARTICIPATION Baby Promise Program Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
The Department of Early Learning and Care is seeking applicants for the Baby Promise Program Rulemaking Committee (RAC)
Baby Promise offers free, high-quality early care and education for infants and toddlers from low-income families in Oregon. Serving children ages six weeks to three years, Baby Promise is a publicly funded program that uses CCDF funds to subsidize slots in eligible early learning and care programs to families with children (aged 6 weeks to 3 years) in coastal Douglas, Coos, Curry, Crook, Deschutes. Jefferson, and Multnomah counties.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) is seeking diverse voices to represent families, Baby Promise early learning programs, child care resource and referral agencies, early learning hubs, and early learning system community partners.
Apply today to give input on the Baby Promise Program!
We are seeking diverse voices to represent groups within Oregon’s Early Learning system. Committee members may include:
Families
Early Learning and Care Programs and providers with contracted Baby Promise slots
Child Care Resource & Referral representatives
Representatives from advocacy organizations
Union Representatives
Representatives from programs who provide care for young children
Representatives from culturally specific, community-based organizations
Early Learning Hub representatives
Higher Education Early Childhood Education Degree Program representatives
Tribal Nations representatives
Participants will be reimbursed for their time dedicated to this RAC and will positively impact Oregon’s children, families, early learning programs, and communities. Applications are due February 9, 2024.
In 2023, the Legislature created the Oregon Kids Credit, which is a refundable credit for low-income families with young dependent children.
For families with a modified adjusted gross income (AGI) of $25,000 or less, the full credit is $1,000 per child for up to five dependent children ages 5 and under at the end of the year. The credit is reduced for families earning more than $25,000, with the credit being reduced to $0 when earning $30,000 or more.
Since the credit is refundable, the portion of credit that is more than what a person owes will be refunded to them. To claim the credit families need to file an Oregon state income tax return, where they can also claim other benefits, such as the Earned Income Credit and the Working Family Household and Dependent Care (WFHDC) credit for child care expenses.
Child Care Stabilization grant
During the week of January 8 notices were sent via email, and USPS letters were mailed to child care providers who were randomly selected for the federally required Child Care Stabilization grant review. Each notice is unique and contains specific information about the Child Care Stabilization grant they received. If child care providers were not notified, they were not selected for the grant review.
We have created a web page to provide information about the review and resources for child care providers and partners. All selected child care providers have until March 29, 2024 to submit the information. If you have questions, please contact eccgrants@delc.oregon.gov .
Reminder: Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.
Reminder: Recent rule changes and updates are now in effect
New laws can require the Department of Early Learning and Care to develop or amend rules that impact children, families, child care providers, and others providing early learning services.
Recent rule changes and updates are now in effect. Read the final versions posted on the Child Care Rules page, or you can also review the Secretary of State’s Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Webpage and sort for the Department of Early Learning and Care. For questions, please contact your licensing specialist or customer service.
Thank you to the Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) who provided important input on the development of these rules.
Reminder:
CALLING ALL OREGON FAMILIES!
Join the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to share your ideas for our first agency strategic plan. We invite your insights on our strengths, addressing urgent needs, supporting providers, and future goals.
Register* for a zoom session and be eligible for $50 in compensation
Two Zoom sessions are being offered: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 6:00 pm (English with interpretation) Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 6:00 pm (Spanish Session)
Reminder: CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: Micro-Center Pilot Program Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC)
During the 2023 legislative session, Senate Bill 1040 passed and requires The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to create a Micro-Center Pilot Program. The Micro-Center Pilot Program will select and work with small capacity child care programs from across the state to identify their unique barriers to licensing. The pilot will support the development of a sustainable model for micro-centers to provide affordable, high quality early learning opportunities to communities in this state.
DELC will create Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) to outline the pilot program application process, eligibility and selection criteria, and program guidelines. DELC will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on the proposed rules and identify financial and equity impacts related to rule implementation.
We are hoping to have additional Certified Center representatives apply to provide input on the unique barriers to licensing that effect small capacity child care centers.
DELC would also like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC:
Directors/representatives of certified centers from across the state, particularly those representing centers with a capacity of less than 30 children.
Parents/family members of children in these types of programs
Registered and Certified Family Home providers
Union Representative
Micro-center community advocates or subject matter experts
Representatives from culturally specific organizations working with young children
Early Learning Hub representatives
Tribal nation representatives
Child Care Resource and Referral representatives
Participants will be compensated for their time and insights. The application period opens December 18, 2023 and closes January 19, 2024. There will be one RAC Meeting held Tuesday, January 30th from 3:00pm-5:00pm.
Reminder: Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)
Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility.
Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized.
For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR.
Reminder: Certified Child Care Center information video series
The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.
You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!
This is a virtual event. Registration is required to attend via Zoom. You may submit questions in advance on the registration form. You may also participate on DELC’s Facebook page live stream at the same time. DELC staff will monitor the Facebook comment section for questions. Note: Attendees utilizing interpretation services (Spanish, Russian, Vietnamese, Chinese, and ASL) should join the session via Zoom.
Sign up for Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) email updates
Get the latest information on the Employment Related Day Care (ERDC) program by signing up for email updates.
The ERDC program helps families who are working, in school, or receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) pay for child care. Recently, the program has made improvements to work better for families. Due to increased demand and limited funding, ERDC has a waitlist for most families applying to the program. Families with specific needs can skip the waitlist.
Stay informed about ERDC program information and resources with email updates. Messages will be sent each quarter unless there is a time sensitive update. Families, providers, and community partners can also learn more about the program by visiting the website or tracking data on the new dashboard.
New laws can require the Department of Early Learning and Care to develop or amend rules that impact children, families, child care providers, and others providing early learning services.
Recent rule changes and updates are now in effect. Read the final versions posted on the Child Care Rules page, or you can also review the Secretary of State’s Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Webpage and sort for the Department of Early Learning and Care. For questions, please contact your licensing specialist or customer service.
Thank you to the Rules Advisory Committees (RACs) who provided important input on the development of these rules.
CALLING ALL OREGON FAMILIES!
Join the Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to share your ideas for our first agency strategic plan. We invite your insights on our strengths, addressing urgent needs, supporting providers, and future goals.
Register* for a zoom session and be eligible for $50 in compensation
Two Zoom sessions are being offered: Wednesday, January 24, 2024 at 6:00 pm (English with interpretation) Thursday, January 25, 2024, at 6:00 pm (Spanish Session)
The Department of Early Learning and Care seeks proposals from organizations interested in becoming a center of excellence on Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation in Oregon.
Interested and eligible organizations are invited to submit proposals to become the Central Entity for the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program.
Please join us for this informational webinar to learn more! You can also visit the DELC blog for more information about this opportunity.
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.
To read the full list of requirements for the Central Entity and submit a proposal, please visit oregonbuys.gov.
Reminder: CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: Micro-Center Pilot Program Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC)
During the 2023 legislative session, Senate Bill 1040 passed and requires The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to create a Micro-Center Pilot Program. The Micro-Center Pilot Program will select and work with small capacity child care programs from across the state to identify their unique barriers to licensing. The pilot will support the development of a sustainable model for micro-centers to provide affordable, high quality early learning opportunities to communities in this state.
DELC will create Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) to outline the pilot program application process, eligibility and selection criteria, and program guidelines. DELC will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on the proposed rules and identify financial and equity impacts related to rule implementation.
We are hoping to have additional Certified Center representatives apply to provide input on the unique barriers to licensing that effect small capacity child care centers.
DELC would also like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC:
Directors/representatives of certified centers from across the state, particularly those representing centers with a capacity of less than 30 children.
Parents/family members of children in these types of programs
Registered and Certified Family Home providers
Union Representative
Micro-center community advocates or subject matter experts
Representatives from culturally specific organizations working with young children
Early Learning Hub representatives
Tribal nation representatives
Child Care Resource and Referral representatives
Participants will be compensated for their time and insights. The application period opens December 18, 2023 and closes January 19, 2024. There will be one RAC Meeting held Tuesday, January 30th from 3:00pm-5:00pm.
Reminder: Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) grant opportunity: Support families in Lincoln and Clackamas County!
Apply to provide services with a Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) home visiting grant opportunity.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Healthy Families Oregon program are happy to announce a grant opportunity for the Lincoln County region and the Clackamas County region. This grant will support HFO home visitor services in each of these counties.
What is HFO?
HFO is an evidence-based, voluntary Home Visiting program nationally accredited by Healthy Families America (HFA). The HFO program supports the economic prosperity of Oregon by preventing child abuse and neglect, promoting healthy child development, improving family self-sufficiency, and helping parents prepare their children for kindergarten.
Who can apply?
The following types of organizations are encouraged to apply:
Multi-purpose, not-for-profit entities with a mission and goals compatible with the goals of HFO programs;
Single-purpose, not-for-profit entities with expertise and experience in providing HFO related services;
State or local government entities or special governmental bodies with expertise in these types of services that have a strong track record of working with human service partners in their communities; and
Coordinated Care Organizations that have experience operating early childhood, parent support programs within their local communities.
Visit the grant opportunities linked below to learn more about the goals of this grant, HFO Home Visiting Services, and to apply!
Reminder: Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)
Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility.
Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized.
For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR.
Reminder: Certified Child Care Center information video series
The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.
You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!
The Department of Early Learning and Care seeks proposals from organizations interested in becoming a center of excellence on Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation in Oregon.
Interested and eligible organizations are invited to submit proposals to become the Central Entity for the Early Childhood Suspension and Expulsion Prevention Program.
This organization will collaborate with DELC to develop a statewide equity centered IECMHC model with the goal of preventing suspension and expulsion of young children. The Central Entity will provide content expertise and technical assistance to Regional Service Providers in implementing IECMHC and expanding the diversity of the IECMHC workforce.
Webinar overview
The Central Entity will function as a center of excellence on equity centered IECMHC in Oregon. This Entity will collaborate with DELC to lead the development and features of the Oregon model and provide technical assistance to Regional Service Providers. Activities include:
Develop standards and guidelines for program administration and the delivery of IECMHC that is culturally responsive, implemented with a focus on antibias and inclusive practices, and is effective in preventing the use of suspension and expulsion and other exclusionary discipline
Define the essential skills and competencies for IECMH Consultants
Support the knowledge and skill development of IECMH Consultants and program leaders through strategies such as:
Core training and onboarding
Communities of Practice
Reflective Supervision (particularly where not available locally)
Licensure Supervision (particularly where not available locally)
Equity Dialogues and Affinity Spaces
Develop a variety of strategies and workforce pathways to increase the diversity of Oregon’s IECMHC workforce
Provide technical assistance and implementation support to Regional Service Providers on all aspects of implementing and administering an IECMHC program, including development of job descriptions and hiring protocols, strategies for developing authentic relationships and understanding the current and historical context of the communities being served, and instruction on the use of selected screening and assessment tools.
Engage in Continuous Quality Improvement and Evaluation Activities, adjusting program practices and updating technical assistance to Regional Service Providers as needed.
Please join us for this informational webinar to learn more!
IN THIS ISSUE: Micro-center pilot program RAC opportunity; Healthy Families Oregon grant opportunity; New Early Learning Council members; Announcing Intended Regional Service Providers; and general reminders
Happy Holidays from the Department of Early Learning and Care.
CALL FOR PARTICIPATION: Micro-Center Pilot Program Rulemaking Advisory Committee (RAC)
During the 2023 legislative session, Senate Bill 1040 passed and requires The Oregon Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) to create a Micro-Center Pilot Program. The Micro-Center Pilot Program will select and work with small capacity child care programs from across the state to identify their unique barriers to licensing. The pilot will support the development of a sustainable model for micro-centers to provide affordable, high quality early learning opportunities to communities in this state.
DELC will create Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) to outline the pilot program application process, eligibility and selection criteria, and program guidelines. DELC will create a Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) to gather valuable feedback on the proposed rules and identify financial and equity impacts related to rule implementation.
DELC would like to invite members of the following groups to apply to participate in the RAC:
Directors/representatives of certified centers from across the state, particularly those representing centers with a capacity of less than 30 children.
Parents/family members of children in these types of programs
Registered and Certified Family Home providers
Union Representative
Micro-center community advocates or subject matter experts
Representatives from culturally specific organizations working with young children
Early Learning Hub representatives
Tribal nation representatives
Child Care Resource and Referral representatives
Participants will be compensated for their time and insights. The application period opens December 18, 2023 and closes January 19, 2024. There will be one RAC Meeting held Tuesday, January 30th from 3:00pm-5:00pm.
Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) grant opportunity: Support families in Lincoln and Clackamas County!
Apply to provide services with a Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) home visiting grant opportunity.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Healthy Families Oregon program are happy to announce a grant opportunity for the Lincoln County region and the Clackamas County region. This grant will support HFO home visitor services in each of these counties.
What is HFO?
HFO is an evidence-based, voluntary Home Visiting program nationally accredited by Healthy Families America (HFA). The HFO program supports the economic prosperity of Oregon by preventing child abuse and neglect, promoting healthy child development, improving family self-sufficiency, and helping parents prepare their children for kindergarten.
Who can apply?
The following types of organizations are encouraged to apply:
Multi-purpose, not-for-profit entities with a mission and goals compatible with the goals of HFO programs;
Single-purpose, not-for-profit entities with expertise and experience in providing HFO related services;
State or local government entities or special governmental bodies with expertise in these types of services that have a strong track record of working with human service partners in their communities; and
Coordinated Care Organizations that have experience operating early childhood, parent support programs within their local communities.
Visit the grant opportunities linked below to learn more about the goals of this grant, HFO Home Visiting Services, and to apply!
The Early Learning Council is charged with coordinating a unified and aligned system of early learning throughout Oregon to ensure that all children, no matter what their background or their community, enter school ready to learn and that all families are healthy, stable and attached. The council follows the work of the five year early learning system strategic plan, Raise Up Oregon.
Visit the DELC blog to learn more about the newest members to the Early Learning Council!
Reminder: Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)
Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility.
Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized.
For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR.
Reminder: Certified Child Care Center information video series
The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.
You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!
Apply to provide services with a Healthy Families Oregon (HFO) home visiting grant opportunity.
The Department of Early Learning and Care (DELC) and the Healthy Families Oregon program are happy to announce a grant opportunity for the Lincoln County region and the Clackamas County region. This grant will support HFO home visitor services in each of these counties.
What is HFO?
HFO is an evidence-based, voluntary Home Visiting program nationally accredited by Healthy Families America (HFA). The HFO program supports the economic prosperity of Oregon by preventing child abuse and neglect, promoting healthy child development, improving family self-sufficiency, and helping parents prepare their children for kindergarten.
Who can apply?
The following types of organizations are encouraged to apply:
Multi-purpose, not-for-profit entities with a mission and goals compatible with the goals of HFO programs;
Single-purpose, not-for-profit entities with expertise and experience in providing HFO related services;
State or local government entities or special governmental bodies with expertise in these types of services that have a strong track record of working with human service partners in their communities; and
Coordinated Care Organizations that have experience operating early childhood, parent support programs within their local communities.
Visit the grant opportunities linked below to learn more about the goals of this grant, HFO Home Visiting Services, and to apply!
The Early Learning Council is charged with coordinating a unified and aligned system of early learning throughout Oregon to ensure that all children, no matter what their background or their community, enter school ready to learn and that all families are healthy, stable and attached. The council follows the work of the five year early learning system strategic plan, Raise Up Oregon.
We are excited to announce that the following individuals have joined the Early Learning Council of Oregon!
Elizabeth Farrar Campbell, Appointed October 2023
Elizabeth Farrar Campbell was confirmed to the ELC in October 2023. Elizabeth Farrar Campbell serves as Gilliam County Judge, where she leads the County’s efforts to address critical community challenges, including early education access. She has held many titles, including in the State Capitol and on Capitol Hill, but her favorite is “Mommy” to 2-year-old daughter, Ainsley.
Barry Ford, Appointed October 2023
Barry Ford was confirmed to the ELC in October 2023. Mr. Ford is the President and CEO of Council for a Strong America (CSA) based in Washington, D.C. Mr. Ford has dedicated his life and career to fighting for the policies and public investments that children and families throughout this country need to thrive. He is a leading national voice on the importance of early care and education to the strength of our economy, the safety of our communities, and the ongoing security of our nation. Before joining CSA, Mr. Ford led the advocacy and community outreach efforts of the United States Tennis Association, was a two-time candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, and an associate with the international law firm Cleary, Gottlieb, Steen & Hamilton. He is a member of the Leadership Council of the Stanford Center on Early Childhood and the Early Years Climate Action Task Force. Mr. Ford also co-chairs the steering committee of The National Collaborative for Infants & Toddlers (NCIT).
Robin Hill-Dunbar, Appointed October 2023
Robin Hill-Dunbar was confirmed to the ELC in October 2023. Ms. Hill-Dunbar is a Senior Program Officer for The Ford Family Foundation based in Roseburg. The Foundation works to improve the lives of rural Oregonians. She joined the Foundation in 2016, where she is working to shape and execute the Foundation’s strategies to support strong families and healthy children of all ages. Prior to coming to the Foundation, she served as the home visiting workforce development coordinator at the Oregon Health Authority/Maternal Child Health. While there, she created a comprehensive workforce development plan that included the development of home visiting competencies for Oregon’s home visiting field, a workforce development plan, and helped embed the Infant Mental Health Endorsement in Oregon. Her extensive background includes work in early Intervention/early childhood special education, home visiting, parenting education, early learning local and statewide program management, and training and technical assistance in the early learning field.
Ruby Ramirez, Appointed October 2023
Ruby Ramirez was confirmed to the ELC in October 2023. Ms. Ramirez is a Program Officer, for Early Childhood Programs at Oregon Community Foundation. In this role, Ms. Ramirez is a relational bridge-builder and cross-system strategist passionate about equitable early learning opportunities and healthy early childhood development. Prior to joining Oregon Community Foundation, Ms. Ramirez worked as an early childhood policy strategy consultant and held several roles in non-profit administration, early childhood workforce professional development, and supporting families with early childhood mental health services.
Marie Simonds, Appointed October 2023
Marie Simonds was confirmed to the ELC in November 2023. Marie joined Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in 2012 and serves as the Executive Director of the newly named Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation (BDCF), working to support a thriving South Coast of Oregon. Through the support of BDCF, she is actively engaged in conservation, economy, and community projects such as Whiskey Run Mountain Biking Trails, Bandon Community Child Care Center, Washed Ashore, Watershed support, and more. Her work on the Bandon Community Child Care project, the local shared services alliance, and workforce challenges have driven and motivated to work for change in the systems surrounding childcare businesses. Prior to joining the Resort, Marie was the Executive Director of the Southwestern Oregon Community College Foundation where she led scholarship fundraising efforts for students as well as served as the Men’s and Women’s golf coach.
Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC)
Did you know Oregon offers a tax credit to help families pay for childcare while they are working, looking for work, or attending school? The Working Family Household and Dependent Care Credit (WFHDC) helps families with qualifying expenses—like paying for childcare at a licensed facility.
Qualified expenses must be paid by the family for care. Families must be able to prove that they paid qualified expenses to claim this credit. Proof of both the payment and a receipt from the childcare provider are required for each expense paid. Taxpayers who knowingly file a false claim for the WFHDC Credit and care providers or other individuals who knowingly assist in the filing of a false claim can be penalized.
For more information on income limits, qualifications, and instructions on how to claim the credit, see the Department of Revenue website. Help spread the word about this resource! If you’d like copies of a flyer to share this information with your clients, you can provide your address and the quantity you need to Jessica Wangler at DOR.
Certified Child Care Center Information Video Series
The Certified Child Care Center information video series will help Certified Child Care Center administrators and staff understand upcoming rule changes effective January 1, 2024.
You can visit DELC’s YouTube playlist Oregon Certified Child Care Center Rule Informational Series to use this resource!
